SAN MARCOS — Texas State football held its pro day Monday, with 14 Bobcats looking for a chance to make their professional football dreams a reality. Observers in attendance appeared to represent the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Houston Texans and Atlanta Falcons.
None of the former Bobcats who participated in the workouts are on major NFL scouting sites’ draft boards. But even if none are drafted or signed as undrafted free agents in April, that’s not the end of the line. There are other options, such as the Canadian Football League or the United Football League.
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For these athletes, the pro day and events leading up to the NFL draft are about doing everything in their power to further their careers.
“A lot of these guys, thankfully, have really good film,” Texas State head coach GJ Kinne said. “If they just get the opportunity, I know they’ll make the most of it.”
Lincoln Pare, Jaden Rios flash athleticism, character
Running back Lincoln Pare and cornerback Jaden Rios generated the most buzz out of the testers. Pare said he worked tirelessly with strength and conditioning coach Bret Huth leading up to Monday, trying to improve his vertical, broad jump, bench press and 40-yard dash.
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Pare said he hit 23 reps on the 225-pound bench press, a personal record. He also leapt 10 feet, 2 inches on the broad jump. But just as important as the on-field testing is off-the-field character. From his time at Houston High School in Germantown, Tenn. to San Marcos, Pare’s work ethic and leadership have been impeccable.
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“I feel like I did a lot for the community and am trying to be the best person I can to everybody,” Pare said. “If you go around San Marcos and ask people about Lincoln Pare, I hope they say great things.”
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Texas State running back Lincoln Pare watches from the sideline during practice at UFCU Stadium on Saturday, August.. 2, 2025 in San Marcos Texas.
Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman
Rios, meanwhile, displayed the physical traits that many coaches look for in defensive backs. He measures 6-foot-3, and said he spent most of his training improving his 40-yard dash. The cornerback said the unofficial hand-times he received were within the 4.4-second range. Rios hopes that his combination of length and speed will be enough for a team to take a chance on his potential.
“It’s hard to find a tall, long, fast corner who can move his hips,” Rios said. “Obviously, you can always be better in plenty of different places, but I’m still young, willing to grow.”
The importance of versatility
Even if an athlete excelled in a certain way in college, there’s no guarantee they can have that same success as a professional. Adding versatility to one’s game gives players more avenues to playing time.
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Kalil Alexander terrorized offensive linemen as an edge rusher, but in the leadup to pro day, he said he expanded his repertoire, learning how to play off-ball linebacker and putting in work on special teams. Linebacker Treylin Payne led Texas State in tackles this past season, but previously spent time at Houston as a defensive back. He said he’s comfortable playing linebacker, nickel corner or safety.
“In the NFL, there are only so many spots you can get in,” Payne said. “If you can lean back on another position to get your shine, do it.”